The World of Threads

Supplejack (kareao or pirita) is a native vine that weaves thick, blackened lines through lowland forests along Aotearoa’s coast. Its twisting, rope-like forms create dense, sculptural masses, dark, looping structures that suggest both entanglement and strength.

Used by Māori and early settlers for binding, weaving, and building, Supplejack carries a deep material history. In this work, its visual presence is explored through layered stitch, structure, and form, a response to its dual nature as both obstacle and resource.